The Balkans, long a geopolitical crossroads, are witnessing renewed Western and Israeli strategic activity, particularly in Albania. Protests have erupted over a luxury resort project on Sazan Island funded by Jared Kushner’s company, which locals call the “Flamingo Revolution.” Demonstrators accuse Prime Minister Edi Rama’s government of selling national land to foreign investors. The project’s proximity to sensitive military areas and Israeli-linked investments has heightened public concern.

Albanian scholars report that dozens of Israeli-related companies now operate in tourism, real estate, and energy sectors, often through dual citizenship arrangements. Rama has expressed strong diplomatic and military support for Israel, including cooperation in defense and cybersecurity. Meanwhile, discussions between Rama and Bektashi leader Baba Mondi about establishing a sovereign Bektashi Muslim microstate in Tirana have drawn criticism from Muslim groups, who warn it could fracture national religious unity.

Analysts suggest these developments reflect broader Western and Israeli efforts to reshape Balkan geopolitics, counter Turkish influence, and secure regional leverage. Former Albanian leaders and opposition figures have condemned the moves as threats to sovereignty and social cohesion.

Thousands of people demonstrated in Albania’s capital, Tirana, on Wednesday against a luxury resort project linked to Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of U.S. President Donald Trump. Protesters gathered outside Prime Minister Edi Rama’s office, carrying placards reading “Albania is not for sale,” and their march extended about half a mile along one of the city’s main roads.

The planned $5.8 billion resort, to be built in the southern coastal village of Zvërnec, has sparked widespread anger because of its proximity to a protected wetland that serves as a nesting and resting site for flamingos, seals, and sea turtles. Critics have also raised concerns about a lack of transparency surrounding the project.

The protest, dubbed the “Flamingo Revolution,” originated in Zvërnec, where the resort is planned. Demonstrators said the project reflects long-standing issues in Albania’s governance and environmental protection.

Thousands of people took to the streets in Tirana, Albania’s capital, this week to protest a luxury resort project financed by Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of former U.S. President Donald Trump. The $1.6 billion complex is being built in one of the Mediterranean region’s most environmentally sensitive areas, where groundwork has already begun.

The site is home to nearly 200 bird species, including flamingos and Dalmatian pelicans. Public anger intensified after construction workers began laying concrete foundations and installing barbed-wire fencing around the project area. Protesters have voiced concerns over potential environmental damage and a perceived lack of political transparency surrounding the deal.

The controversy has drawn attention to the environmental and governance challenges facing large-scale foreign investment projects in Albania, though the government’s response to the protests was not detailed in the report.

A young man from Katiadi upazila in Kishoreganj, Bangladesh, died in a gas cylinder explosion in Albania. The victim, Omar Faruk, aged 26, was the younger son of the late Malu Mia from Ukhrashal village under Achmita Union. The incident occurred on Sunday morning while he was asleep in his room. At that time, a cook was preparing food when the cylinder exploded. Other occupants managed to escape, but Omar Faruk could not.

According to his elder brother, Abu Saleh, Omar Faruk had moved to Albania about two years ago and was employed as a factory worker at NCP Company. His roommate, Hasu Mia, confirmed the death over the phone. The report did not mention any further details about the aftermath or official response.

The incident highlights the risks faced by Bangladeshi migrant workers abroad, particularly in industrial and residential settings where safety measures may be inadequate.

Violent anti-government protests broke out in Albania’s capital, Tirana, on Tuesday night as demonstrators demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama over corruption allegations. At least 16 people were injured in clashes with police and taken to hospitals, while 13 protesters were arrested, according to Al Jazeera. Police used water cannons and tear gas to disperse crowds outside the prime minister’s office, and protesters responded by throwing Molotov cocktails. Additional clashes were reported near the Albanian parliament building.

The unrest follows months of political tension in Albania, which began in November when prosecutors accused Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku of financial misconduct. Demonstrations have continued since then, reflecting growing dissatisfaction with the government. Protesters are calling for both Rama and Balluku to step down and have urged parliament to suspend Balluku’s immunity so she can face trial.

The ongoing protests highlight deepening political instability in Albania, with no immediate sign of resolution as opposition groups maintain pressure on the government.

Hundreds of people demonstrated in Albania’s capital, Tirana, protesting Prime Minister Edi Rama’s recent visit to Israel from January 25 to 27. The protesters gathered in front of the parliament building on Friday, expressing solidarity with Palestinians and condemning the visit as unrepresentative of public opinion. The demonstration was organized by various civil society groups, according to Anadolu Agency.

Participants carried banners reading “Not in my name,” “Do not shake hands with oppression and barbarism,” and “Stop bombing Gaza.” Organizer Florjar Arapi said Albanians stand for peace and justice, not genocide or war crimes, calling Rama’s visit a shame and disgrace for the nation. He criticized Rama for aligning Albania with injustice and violence at a time when many countries have distanced themselves from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Protester Sidorela Vatnikaj said Albanians, having experienced genocide in Kosovo, oppose any association with alleged war crimes. She and others expressed anger over Rama’s invitation to Israeli companies to invest in Albania, describing it as colonialism rather than partnership.